SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH US
Are Your Symptoms Affecting Your Quality Of Life?
Consult our MOH-accredited ankle specialist for an accurate diagnosis & personalised treatment plan.
Ankle Tendon Repair
Ankle tendon repair is a surgical procedure to restore the function of torn or damaged tendons in the ankle. The surgery involves reconnecting separated tendon ends or reattaching a tendon to bone, depending on the nature and location of the injury.
It is performed to improve ankle mobility, stability, and strength, reduce pain, and prevent further tendon deterioration.
Dr Dennis Ng Zhaowen
Indications for Ankle Tendon Repair
Ankle tendon repair may be recommended when non-surgical treatments fail to provide sufficient relief for certain conditions or injuries:
- Complete Tendon Rupture: A full tear through the tendon, often caused by sports activities or sudden ankle movements, may require surgery to reconnect the ends.
- Chronic Tendinosis: Long-term tendon degeneration causing persistent pain and weakness may necessitate surgical intervention if other treatments are ineffective.
- Partial Tears with Functional Impact: Significant partial tears that interfere with daily activities and do not respond to conservative measures often benefit from surgery.
- Sports-Related Injuries: Athletes with tendon injuries that hinder performance and fail to improve with non-surgical approaches may require repair to return to their activities.
Benefits Of Ankle Tendon Repair
Ankle tendon repair can help individuals with severe tendon injuries by providing the following benefits:
- Improved Ankle Function
Reconnection of the damaged tendon allows normal movement and weight-bearing activities - Pain Relief
Surgical repair addresses the source of tendon damages, reducing pain during movement and rest. - Prevention of Further Damage
Repairing the tendon helps stop progressive deterioration and reduces the risk of complete rupture in partial tears. - Return to Activities
After rehabilitation, patients can resume sports, exercise, and daily activities with better ankle stability and strength.
Surgical Techniques
Open Repair
This traditional approach involves making a single, longer incision to access the tendon directly. The surgeon removes damaged tissue and reconnects or reattaches the tendon using specialised sutures. This technique is particularly suitable for cases with significant tendon damage or when reconstruction is required.
Minimally Invasive Repair
This technique uses several small incisions to perform the repair with the aid of specialised instruments and a tiny camera. The surgeon guides the instruments through these incisions while observing the procedure on a monitor. This method typically results in smaller scars and a shorter initial recovery period, though its suitability depends on the severity and location of the injury.
Tendon Transfer
In cases where the damaged tendon cannot be repaired, a nearby healthy tendon is redirected to take over its function. The surgeon detaches one end of the healthy tendon and reattaches it to the target bone. This approach requires careful selection of the donor tendon to maintain overall foot and ankle mechanics, ensuring the new alignment supports both mobility and strength.
Preparing for Surgery
Medical Assessment
A physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies like MRI or ultrasound confirm the injury’s extent and location. Additional tests, such as blood tests or an ECG, assess overall health.
Medication Management
Blood-thinning medications and certain supplements or anti-inflammatory drugs may need to be stopped prior to surgery to reduce bleeding risks. The surgeon provides tailored advice based on individual health needs.
Fasting Guidelines
Refrain from consuming any food or drink, including water, for 6–8 hours before surgery. This fasting period is necessary to minimise the risk of complications during anaesthesia.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Anaesthesia and Preparation: The anaesthetist administers either general anaesthesia or a regional never block, ensuring comfort throughout the surgery. Vital signs are closely monitored, the surgical site is cleaned with antiseptic, and sterile drapes are used to isolate the area.
- Tendon Access and Evaluation: The surgeon makes the planned incisions, carefully dissecting through layers of tissue to expose the damaged tendon. Special care is taken to protect surrounding nerves, blood vessels, and other structures. Retractors hold the tissue apart to maintain a clear view of the surgical field.
- Tendon Repair: The damaged ends of the tendon are trimmed to create smooth edges. Strong sutures are placed in a specific pattern to ensure a robust repair. In cases where the tendon must be reattached to bone, anchors or screws may be used.
- Wound Closure: Once the repair is complete, the surgeon checks the tension and movement of the tendon before closing the incision layer by layer. A sterile dressing is applied, followed by a splint or cast to protect the repair.
Post-Surgical Care and Recovery
Immediate Post-Operative Care
The focus during this period is on protecting the repaired tendon. Immobilisation in a cast or splint prevents movement that could strain the repair. Pain is managed with prescribed medications, while elevation and ice application help reduce swelling.
Rehabilitation Phase
Rehabilitation begins with the transition to a removable boot, allowing controlled ankle movement. Physical therapy introduces gentle exercises to restore range of motion and build strength. Partial weight-bearing is gradually introduced, following the surgeon’s protocol to ensure the tendon heals without strain.
Long-Term Recovery
Strengthening exercises become progressively more intensive as healing continues. Patients gradually reintroduce normal footwear and resume daily activities. High-impact activities and sports may require up to six months, depending on individual progress. Follow-up appointments help monitor recovery and address any concerns.
Potential Risks and Complications
Ankle tendon repair carries some risks, including infection, excessive bleeding, blood clots, or adverse reactions to anaesthesia. Specific complications include tendon rerupture, reduced movement, swelling, nerve damage, and scar tissue formation, which may limit tendon gliding. However, most issues are manageable with timely medical attention.
WHY CHOOSE DR DENNIS NG
Effective & Evidence-Based Orthopaedic Care
Dr. Dennis Ng is dedicated to understanding your unique needs, focusing on restoring
your active lifestyle and overall well-being.
Specialised Experience In Complex Procedures
PATIENT-CENTRED & PERSONALISED APPROACH
Dedicated Aftercare For Optimal Recovery
AFFORDABLE & TRANSPARENT PRICING
Insurance
Our clinic is on the specialist panels of the following Health Networks/Insurance Plans, and we are happy to assist with your claims or
attend to any query you may have.
Personal Insurance
Corporate Insurance
Contact Us Today
Please send us a message, and our friendly clinic staff will get back to you shortly.
Visit Us Today
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
38 Irrawaddy Road #08-41
Singapore 329563
Monday – Friday: 9am – 1pm; 2pm – 5pm
Saturday: 9am – 1pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Other Clinic Location
Gleneagles Medical Center
6 Napier Road #07-15
Singapore 258499
Monday – Friday: 9am – 1pm; 2pm – 5pm
Saturday: 9am – 1pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much time will I need off work?
Office workers typically return to work within 2–3 weeks, using mobility aids during recovery. Physically demanding jobs requiring heavy lifting or prolonged standing usually need 3–4 months for a safe return.
Can the tendon tear again after repair?
Re-tears are rare (2–5%) but more likely during early healing when the tendon is fragile. Following post-operative instructions and avoiding high-impact activities greatly reduces this risk.
Will I have permanent restrictions after recovery?
Most patients return to their previous activities without restrictions. Those in high-impact sports or demanding activities may need minor technique adjustments to prevent future injuries.